Meaning and Usage
"切実" (せつじつ) is a formal adjective used to express something that is deeply felt, urgent, or serious. It often describes emotions, desires, or problems that are intense and require immediate attention or sincere consideration.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used in formal or written Japanese, such as news reports, speeches, or serious conversations. It conveys a strong emotional or practical necessity.
Collocations and Patterns
- 切実な願い (せつじつなねがい): an earnest wish or plea
- 切実な問題 (せつじつなもんだい): a serious or pressing problem
- 切実に求める (せつじつにもとめる): to earnestly seek or request
Nuances
Using "切実" implies that the speaker or subject is not casually concerned but deeply affected or motivated by the matter. It is more intense than words like "大切" (important) or "重要" (important), emphasizing emotional or existential urgency.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse "切実" with "切羽詰まる" (せっぱつまる), which means to be desperate or pressed for time. While related in urgency, "切実" is an adjective describing the nature of a feeling or situation, not the state of being pressured.